Beyond their exquisite flavors and captivating aromas, Sri Lankan spices have earned a renowned reputation for their extensive range of health advantages, benefiting all of our bodily systems. Whether it's the robust clove, the spirited pepper, the comforting nutmeg, the vibrant turmeric, the comforting cinnamon, the alluring cardamom, or any other herb, each boasts its own unique array of health benefits, making them indispensable elements of Sri Lankan cuisine.
Throughout history, the enchanting properties of cinnamon have been recognized for their wondrous healing potential, a legacy that persists even in our modern age. Contemporary research affirms that the true magic of cinnamon's health benefits emanates from its bark's compounds—cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and cinnamate. With its remarkable anti-cancer, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-diabetic attributes, along with its immune-boosting prowess, cinnamon stands as a testament to countless health advantages.
Health Benefits
Above all the spices, True Cinnamon ranks number 1 in terms of its antioxidant content. It contains a range of protective antioxidants that reduce free radicals which are damaging your body, thus helps to slow down the aging process. It also helps limit nitric oxide buildup in the blood, and minimize the risk of brain disorders, cancer, heart disease and other chronic conditions.
Cinnamon is a good friend to your heart! Why? It reduces the 3 major threats to your heart, blood cholesterol level, triglycerides as well as high blood pressure. It also improves blood circulation and helps to regenerate cardiac tissues.
Research indicates that cinnamon can lower blood sugar levels and improve sensitivity to the hormone insulin, and keep blood sugar levels balanced. Patients with type-2 diabetes are highly benefitted by cinnamon as it can slow down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream.
Research shows that the antioxidants in Cinnamon can enhance brain function and protect the brain against the development of neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Especially the substances in Cinnamon such as cinnemaldehyde and epicatectincan inhibit the accumulation of tau protein in the brain, minimizing the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
Owing to its rich content of antioxidants, Cinnamon can fight against DNA damage, cell mutation and cancerous tumor growth, especially in colon. Especially cinnamaldehyde, the key component of cinnamon bark oil has the ability to inhibit tumor growth and kill off cancer cells.
Thanks to its antibiotic and antimicrobial properties, cinnamon protects your skin from irritation, allergic reactions and bacterial infection. Research has proven that applying cinnamon essential oil on the skin can be helpful in reducing a variety of skin diseases such as inflammation, acne and allergies.